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March 03.2026
2 Minutes Read

KPMG's New ESG Leader Gauthier Acket: A Path Towards Sustainability

KPMG Head of Global ESG, confident smiling man, professional portrait.

KPMG's Strategic Vision for ESG Implementation

In a significant development, KPMG International has appointed Gauthier Acket as its new Head of Global ESG. This executive move comes after the retirement of John McCalla-Leacy, who contributed to the company's initiatives in embedding environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices into KPMG's overarching strategy. With nearly 30 years of experience at KPMG, Acket is well-equipped to lead these efforts, having previously served as the Global ESG Chief Operating Officer and client partner. His deep understanding of ESG frameworks will be pivotal in enhancing KPMG's commitment to sustainability.

Emphasizing Sustainable Outcomes

In his new role, Acket has expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with colleagues across KPMG's global network to promote sustainability-oriented outcomes for clients. This focus on sustainability not only reinforces KPMG's vision but also supports businesses in transforming into purpose-driven organizations. Acket's plans include leveraging KPMG’s wide-ranging capabilities to enhance resilience, better manage risks, and contribute effectively to the transition towards a low-carbon economy.

ESG Practices in the Spotlight

The appointment aligns with a broader trend among professional services firms to increase advocacy and implementation of ESG initiatives. As businesses around the world begin to recognize the importance of sustainable practices, the demand for experts capable of guiding these transitions has surged. Firms like KPMG are thereby investing in leadership that prioritizes ESG as central to their operations.

Assessing Global Hiring Trends in ESG

KPMG's strategic move reflects a growing trend toward sustainability within corporate leadership. Notably, other major firms have made similar appointments to deepen their ESG competencies. For example, Crédit Agricole recently appointed Quentin Guerineau as Chief Sustainability and Impact Officer, showcasing a widespread commitment to integrating ESG practices into the very fabric of their organizations.

The Future of ESG in Corporate Strategy

As companies increasingly prioritize ESG metrics, it becomes vital for leadership to understand not only these standards but also the logistics behind implementing them effectively. Acket’s appointment signals KPMG's foresight in recognizing the essential role of ESG in advisory services—a role that will likely expand given the global push for sustainability and corporate responsibility.

In conclusion, Gauthier Acket's new responsibilities as Head of Global ESG at KPMG mark an important step in the company’s ongoing evolution towards sustainability. MID-TO-SENIOR level professionals within the fields of project management, cost engineering, and risk management would benefit from staying informed about these changes in leadership and strategy as they shape the future of corporate governance.

If you're looking to navigate the intricate landscape of ESG practices in your operations, focusing on staying updated with leadership movements can provide insights into which firms are committed to making significant strides in sustainable practices.

ESG & Sustainable projects

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04.17.2026

Exomad Green's Game-Changing Biochar Agreement: A Major Victory in Carbon Removal

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04.14.2026

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